Salt Lake City is a unique blend of rugged mountain adventure and rich pioneer history nestled against the dramatic Wasatch Range. It is best visited during the shoulder seasons of late spring or early fall when the weather is mild and the nearby canyons are accessible for hiking and sightseeing.
Top Things to Do in Salt Lake City
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Getting Around Salt Lake City
From the Airport
TRAX Light Rail. The Green Line runs directly from the airport to downtown Salt Lake City, taking about 20-25 minutes and costing $2.50 for a one-way fare. Rideshare. Uber and Lyft are both widely available at the airport, with dedicated pickup zones located outside the baggage claim area.
Once You're There
TRAX Light Rail. The city has an efficient light rail system (TRAX) that covers the downtown core and major suburban areas, making it easy to navigate without a car. Walking. Downtown Salt Lake City is laid out on a very logical grid and is extremely walkable, especially between Temple Square and the shopping districts. Rideshare. Uber and Lyft are the standard for getting around if you prefer not to use public transit or if you are heading to trailheads in the canyons.
Where to Stay in Salt Lake City
Hotel picks for Salt Lake City are coming soon. In the meantime, search directly:
Where to Eat in Salt Lake City
- PalletPallet★ 4.7 (15)3040 Harvey Milk Blvd, Salt Lake City, UT 84104, USALocated in a renovated historic building, this restaurant serves refined modern American dishes in an industrial-chic atmosphere.
Red Iguana★ 4.6 (10,632)736 W North Temple St, Salt Lake City, UT 84116, USAThis legendary spot is widely considered the best place in the city for authentic Mexican mole, with the Mole Negro being a mandatory order.
Takashi★ 4.6 (3,275)18 W Market St, Salt Lake City, UT 84101, USAWidely regarded as the premier sushi destination in the city, this sleek venue offers inventive rolls and incredibly fresh fish.
Valter's Osteria★ 4.6 (1,886)173 W Broadway, Salt Lake City, UT 84101, USAAn upscale downtown institution known for its impeccable service and traditional Tuscan pasta dishes that feel like a slice of Italy.
Eva★ 4.6 (997)317 S Main St, Salt Lake City, UT 84111, USAA cozy, intimate spot perfect for sharing a variety of small plates and Mediterranean-inspired dishes with a group.
HSL★ 4.6 (920)418 E 200 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84111, USAThis stylish restaurant focuses on creative, locally sourced American cuisine with a menu that changes seasonally to highlight the best regional ingredients.
Squatters Pub Brewery★ 4.5 (3,317)147 W Broadway, Salt Lake City, UT 84101, USAA cornerstone of the local craft beer scene, this brewpub offers hearty pub fare that pairs perfectly with their award-winning house-brewed ales.
Copper Onion★ 4.4 (3,785)111 E Broadway #170, Salt Lake City, UT 84111, USAA sophisticated gastropub that serves elevated American comfort food, with their Wagyu beef stroganoff being a local favorite.
Zest Kitchen & Bar★ 4.4 (2,116)275 S 200 W, Salt Lake City, UT 84101, USAThis vibrant spot specializes in plant-based, gluten-free cuisine that is flavorful enough to satisfy even the most committed carnivores.
Tin Angel Cafe★ 4.4 (549)131 S Main St, Salt Lake City, UT 84111, USATucked away in the Eccles Theater complex, this charming cafe is known for its seasonal menu and relaxed, artsy vibe.
Tours & Activities
Bookable through Viator.
3 Days in Salt Lake City
Historic Heart & Downtown
Morning. Start your journey at the iconic Temple Square, the spiritual and historic center of the city, where you can admire the stunning architecture of the Salt Lake Temple and the Tabernacle. While the temple undergoes renovations, the surrounding grounds remain beautifully manicured and offer a peaceful atmosphere for a morning stroll. Spend about two hours here before walking a few blocks north to the Beehive House, the historic residence of Brigham Young. It is best to arrive early to avoid the mid-morning tour crowds. Afterward, head toward the City Creek Center to experience its unique open-air design and artificial creek that flows through the shopping district.
Afternoon. After grabbing lunch, make your way toward the Utah State Capitol, which sits majestically on Capitol Hill overlooking the entire valley. The interior rotunda is breathtaking, and the panoramic views from the south steps are perfect for photography, especially on a clear day. Spend some time wandering the grounds and the nearby Memory Grove Park, a quiet, leafy space dedicated to Utah veterans. It is a steep walk back down, so wear comfortable shoes. Once you have finished exploring the park, head toward the historic Marmalade District to admire the unique colorful Victorian-era homes that line the narrow, hilly streets.
Evening. As the sun begins to set, head downtown to the vibrant area surrounding the Eccles Theater. The neighborhood comes alive in the evening with theater-goers and locals looking for a great meal. Wander through the nearby Regent Street, which has been revitalized into a pedestrian-friendly corridor filled with murals and hidden gems. It is the perfect place to grab a cocktail or a pre-theater drink before settling into a nice dinner. End your night by walking past the historic Peery Hotel to admire its classic architecture before calling it a day.
Nature & Culture
Morning. Begin your day by heading east toward the foothills to visit the Natural History Museum of Utah, a stunning architectural marvel built into the side of the mountain. You will need at least three hours to fully appreciate the extensive exhibits on dinosaurs, regional geology, and native cultures. The museum's terrace offers one of the best views of the valley floor, so make sure to step outside for a photo. From there, take a short drive to the adjacent Red Butte Garden, one of the largest botanical gardens in the Intermountain West. It is best to bring a water bottle and sunscreen, as the high-altitude sun can be intense even on cooler mornings.
Afternoon. After a morning in the foothills, drive back toward the city center to explore the eclectic 9th and 9th neighborhood. This area is known for its independent boutiques, quirky art galleries, and local coffee shops, making it the perfect spot for a relaxed afternoon. Grab a coffee at a local roaster and browse the shelves at The King's English Bookshop, a beloved community institution. Afterward, walk over to the nearby Liberty Park to enjoy the shade of the towering trees. If you have time, visit the Tracy Aviary located within the park to see a diverse collection of birds from around the world.
Evening. For your final evening in the city, head to the trendy Sugar House neighborhood, which has transformed into a hub for dining and entertainment. Start with a walk around the Sugar House Park, a massive green space that is a favorite among locals for evening exercise. Once you have built up an appetite, head to the main drag to choose from the many bustling restaurants. The area feels very local and less touristy, giving you a real sense of where Salt Lake City residents spend their free time. Wrap up your night with some local craft ice cream at a nearby parlor before heading back to your accommodation.
Canyons & Oddities
Morning. Escape the city limits and head toward Big Cottonwood Canyon for a morning of fresh mountain air. The drive itself is spectacular, winding up through dramatic limestone cliffs and lush pine forests that define the Wasatch range. Stop at the S-Curve overlook for a quick photo opportunity, or head straight to the Silver Lake trailhead for an easy, scenic loop around an alpine lake. It is essential to arrive early, preferably before 9:00 AM, to secure parking at the popular trailheads. Bring layers, as temperatures can drop significantly once you gain elevation, even in the middle of summer.
Afternoon. After returning from the mountains, head back toward the city to visit the mysterious and fascinating Gilgal Sculpture Garden. This hidden gem is tucked away behind houses and features strange, symbolic stone carvings that are unlike anything else in the city. It is a quiet, contemplative spot that rarely gets crowded, making it perfect for a peaceful afternoon break. Once you have seen the sculptures, head to the nearby Trolley Square, a historic shopping and dining complex built into old streetcar barns. The brick architecture and converted spaces make it a unique place to wander through for an hour or two.
Evening. For your final evening, head to the west side of the city to explore the vibrant dining scene near the Gateway district. This area is home to The Leonardo, a museum dedicated to art, science, and technology that often hosts interesting evening exhibitions. After browsing the exhibits, take a walk through the Olympic Legacy Plaza, which still features the cauldron from the 2002 Winter Games. It is a great spot to reflect on the city's history as an Olympic host. End your trip with a memorable meal at one of the top-rated restaurants in the area to toast to your successful adventure in Utah.
